10/02/18 WILLING TO BE WILLING
The question is not if God will do His will, but will I do His will.
MATTHEW 7:21-23; 12:48-50; 16:24-25; JOHN 7:16-18
Matthew 7:21-23
21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Matthew 12:48-50
48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?
49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Matthew 16:24-25
24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
John 7:16-18
16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
10/02/18 IT IS CALLED BIBLE STUDY
10/02/18 IT IS CALLED BIBLE STUDY
Christians need to spend more time with other believers, sharing, discussing and exploring Divine directives.
IT IS CALLED BIBLE STUDY.
Christians need to spend more time with other believers, sharing, discussing and exploring Divine directives.
IT IS CALLED BIBLE STUDY.
10/02/18 CHANGES AND TRANSFORMATION
10/02/18 CHANGES AND TRANSFORMATION
I HOPE YOU WILL READ THIS ARTICLE I JUST WROTE.
(it will take about three minutes to read, but it could result in a lifetime and eternity of benefits.)
Being a Christian requires changes and transformation in our lives.
(then again, being a sinner involves critical changes in life)
I use the word "change" in reference to PERSONAL CHANGES WE MAKE, as well as THE CHANGES GOD MAKES in our circumstances, AND I USE the word "transformation" in reference to THE MIRACULOUS WORKS OF GOD IN US.
We must be WILLING TO MAKE changes and we must be WILLING FOR GOD TO MAKE changes, and we MUST BE RECEPTIVE to Divine change and transformation.
There will be changes IN US, TO US AND AROUND US.
Changes can be uncomfortable, difficult, inconvenient, costly.
Even good changes or Divine changes may come with negative impact.
Some changes are negative in nature and obviously, other changes are positive in nature. In this case I am using "Negative" to indicate, "taking away" and "Positive" to indicate, "adding to."
Negative is not always a bad thing. When we have sin taken away, that is good, but it is accompanied with adding "righteousness," which is also good.
God provides every good thing in our lives, even when it is a negative. God is the Giver of every good and perfect gift.
God gives us the ability to trust and obey, which is CHANGE that leads to more CHANGE.
Sometimes God allows bad things to happen, in order to bring about something good. All things WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD to them that love the Lord. Not everything that happens is good, but God uses even the bad for His own purposes.
Even the good changes we make are because of the grace and enabling power of God. God enables us to make choices to do good things, to do right things to do that which is pleasing in His sight. God then enables us to act on those decisions.
If we want to be pleasing to God, there are changes we must make on our way to salvation, as we enter salvation, as we walk in salvation.
The miraculous intervention of God that transforms us are both instantaneous and gradual. Conversion and Entire Sanctification (the filling of the Holy Spirit) are instantaneous, while growth in grace is gradual.
John Wesley described Entire Sanctification as something that we approach gradually, enter into suddenly and grow in forever.
No one is Entirely Sanctified (purified by the fullness of the Holy Spirit) gradually. Purification, just like life itself, is an instantaneous, momentary act of God. Being born again is an instantaneous, miraculous, Divine work of transforming a dead man into a living man. Entire Sanctification is an instantaneous, miraculous, Divine work of transforming a carnal believer into a Spirit filled, holy believer.
Positive changes in our lives, changes brought about by Divine intervention in this life, always deal with negative changes. Divine changes are for our eternal good, while rejecting these changes may result in eternal loss.
A commitment to Divine will is a commitment to change and transformation.
I HOPE YOU WILL READ THIS ARTICLE I JUST WROTE.
(it will take about three minutes to read, but it could result in a lifetime and eternity of benefits.)
Being a Christian requires changes and transformation in our lives.
(then again, being a sinner involves critical changes in life)
I use the word "change" in reference to PERSONAL CHANGES WE MAKE, as well as THE CHANGES GOD MAKES in our circumstances, AND I USE the word "transformation" in reference to THE MIRACULOUS WORKS OF GOD IN US.
We must be WILLING TO MAKE changes and we must be WILLING FOR GOD TO MAKE changes, and we MUST BE RECEPTIVE to Divine change and transformation.
There will be changes IN US, TO US AND AROUND US.
Changes can be uncomfortable, difficult, inconvenient, costly.
Even good changes or Divine changes may come with negative impact.
Some changes are negative in nature and obviously, other changes are positive in nature. In this case I am using "Negative" to indicate, "taking away" and "Positive" to indicate, "adding to."
Negative is not always a bad thing. When we have sin taken away, that is good, but it is accompanied with adding "righteousness," which is also good.
God provides every good thing in our lives, even when it is a negative. God is the Giver of every good and perfect gift.
God gives us the ability to trust and obey, which is CHANGE that leads to more CHANGE.
Sometimes God allows bad things to happen, in order to bring about something good. All things WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD to them that love the Lord. Not everything that happens is good, but God uses even the bad for His own purposes.
Even the good changes we make are because of the grace and enabling power of God. God enables us to make choices to do good things, to do right things to do that which is pleasing in His sight. God then enables us to act on those decisions.
If we want to be pleasing to God, there are changes we must make on our way to salvation, as we enter salvation, as we walk in salvation.
The miraculous intervention of God that transforms us are both instantaneous and gradual. Conversion and Entire Sanctification (the filling of the Holy Spirit) are instantaneous, while growth in grace is gradual.
John Wesley described Entire Sanctification as something that we approach gradually, enter into suddenly and grow in forever.
No one is Entirely Sanctified (purified by the fullness of the Holy Spirit) gradually. Purification, just like life itself, is an instantaneous, momentary act of God. Being born again is an instantaneous, miraculous, Divine work of transforming a dead man into a living man. Entire Sanctification is an instantaneous, miraculous, Divine work of transforming a carnal believer into a Spirit filled, holy believer.
Positive changes in our lives, changes brought about by Divine intervention in this life, always deal with negative changes. Divine changes are for our eternal good, while rejecting these changes may result in eternal loss.
A commitment to Divine will is a commitment to change and transformation.
Monday, October 1, 2018
10/01/18 Reflecting On Government Intervention
10/01/18 Reflecting On Government Intervention
DASH-CAM MESSAGES
Reflecting On Government Intervention
I had been taking care of some things and while I was out I decided I needed to get lunch. But I used the time to also share some thoughts about the use and misuse of the power of the State. I ask how the following statement is finished, "The power to tax is the power to......" I also ask how this statement is finished, "Power corrupts and absolute..."
I was looking for a good place to get lunch, after choosing not to go to Clawson's. I debated with myself about pizza at home (from No Name Pizza, The Spot Grill, Roland's Barbecue, and even considered Burger King and McDonald's. What I finally decided was my least likely choice. I mention this because I think it is funny to ride around with me trying to decide on lunch. You might find that funny, while I address the issue of State assistance for needy people. Then again, you might just want to get something to eat and not watch this video at all. hehehe
DASH-CAM MESSAGES
Reflecting On Government Intervention
I had been taking care of some things and while I was out I decided I needed to get lunch. But I used the time to also share some thoughts about the use and misuse of the power of the State. I ask how the following statement is finished, "The power to tax is the power to......" I also ask how this statement is finished, "Power corrupts and absolute..."
I was looking for a good place to get lunch, after choosing not to go to Clawson's. I debated with myself about pizza at home (from No Name Pizza, The Spot Grill, Roland's Barbecue, and even considered Burger King and McDonald's. What I finally decided was my least likely choice. I mention this because I think it is funny to ride around with me trying to decide on lunch. You might find that funny, while I address the issue of State assistance for needy people. Then again, you might just want to get something to eat and not watch this video at all. hehehe
10/01/18 BUT THEY ARE WRONG
10/01/18 BUT THEY ARE WRONG
Reading some passages from HEBREWS.
Sinning religion denies this applies to Christians.
I understand that.
Reading some passages from HEBREWS.
Sinning religion denies this applies to Christians.
I understand that.
09/30/18 THE WAY OF FAITH
09/30/18 THE WAY OF FAITH
BLESSED SERVICE AND I PICKED UP A CLOSING PASSAGE FOR A MESSAGE I WAS WORKING ON.
Pastor Clint (Free Grace Wesleyan Church, Harkers Island) preached another great message tonight, in barn burner fashion. I get encouraged, enlightened and edified. One of the points he made tonight finished a thought I had considered a couple of times this weekend.
THE PLACE OF FAITH IN THE BELIEVER'S LIFE.
(I readily had my first two points, but had not taken time to form the third point, but Pastor Clint mentioned something that have me my third point.
MY MESSAGE...
THE PLACE OF FAITH IN THE BELIEVER'S LIFE.
PREMISE: Faith is Essential to Being a Christian.
Galatians 3:26
26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
I. The Christian Life Begins Through Faith.
Ephesians 2:8-10
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
II.The Christian Life Continues Through Faith.
Romans 1:16-17
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7
7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Galatians 3:11
11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
Hebrews 10:38-39
38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
III. We Finish Our Journey by Holding to Faith.
(speaking of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11),
Hebrews 11:13-16
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
BLESSED SERVICE AND I PICKED UP A CLOSING PASSAGE FOR A MESSAGE I WAS WORKING ON.
Pastor Clint (Free Grace Wesleyan Church, Harkers Island) preached another great message tonight, in barn burner fashion. I get encouraged, enlightened and edified. One of the points he made tonight finished a thought I had considered a couple of times this weekend.
THE PLACE OF FAITH IN THE BELIEVER'S LIFE.
(I readily had my first two points, but had not taken time to form the third point, but Pastor Clint mentioned something that have me my third point.
MY MESSAGE...
THE PLACE OF FAITH IN THE BELIEVER'S LIFE.
PREMISE: Faith is Essential to Being a Christian.
Galatians 3:26
26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
I. The Christian Life Begins Through Faith.
Ephesians 2:8-10
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
II.The Christian Life Continues Through Faith.
Romans 1:16-17
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7
7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Galatians 3:11
11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
Hebrews 10:38-39
38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
III. We Finish Our Journey by Holding to Faith.
(speaking of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11),
Hebrews 11:13-16
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
09/30/18 THE BODY OF CHRIST
09/30/18 THE BODY OF CHRIST
Cell, Tissue, Organ, System:
The Organizational Structure of the human body and the Body of Christ (local and universal).
The Local Body of Christ
CELL is the individual believer.
TISSUE is the individual believer's network with other believers who share a close relationship and common interests.
ORGAN is the entire local congregation joined together under One Lordship and purpose.
SYSTEM is the universal Body of Christ.
These principles can be seen in these passages.
Romans 12:3-8
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Corinthians 1:10
10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
1 Corinthians 12:1-27
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14 For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
Ephesians 4:1-16
1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
God intends for His body to be healthy and aligned together under the Headship of Christ. Though the church suffers opposition and hardships, God gives us the grace to live together in spiritual victory.
Cell, Tissue, Organ, System:
The Organizational Structure of the human body and the Body of Christ (local and universal).
The Local Body of Christ
CELL is the individual believer.
TISSUE is the individual believer's network with other believers who share a close relationship and common interests.
ORGAN is the entire local congregation joined together under One Lordship and purpose.
SYSTEM is the universal Body of Christ.
These principles can be seen in these passages.
Romans 12:3-8
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Corinthians 1:10
10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
1 Corinthians 12:1-27
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14 For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
Ephesians 4:1-16
1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
God intends for His body to be healthy and aligned together under the Headship of Christ. Though the church suffers opposition and hardships, God gives us the grace to live together in spiritual victory.
09/30/18 HOUSING NEEDED
09/30/18 HOUSING NEEDED
Our area could use FEMA (or other) trailers for the thousands of dispossessed in our area.
Not like the waste we saw in New Orleans.
Our area could use FEMA (or other) trailers for the thousands of dispossessed in our area.
Not like the waste we saw in New Orleans.
09/30/18 THIS IS NOT FOR ME OR MINE
09/30/18 THIS IS NOT FOR ME OR MINE
REMEMBER
The end of news feed
IS NOT
The end of disaster need.
THIS IS NOT FOR ME OR MINE. We are greatly blessed.
I post these reminders especially for those who live in other areas and have victimized friends in Florence's path. There is truth in the old saying, "Out of sight, out of mind." I am always hoping that my reminders stir someone to help folks I have never met.
REMEMBER
The end of news feed
IS NOT
The end of disaster need.
THIS IS NOT FOR ME OR MINE. We are greatly blessed.
I post these reminders especially for those who live in other areas and have victimized friends in Florence's path. There is truth in the old saying, "Out of sight, out of mind." I am always hoping that my reminders stir someone to help folks I have never met.
09/29/18 A VIEW OF GOD'S SUPPORT SYSTEM
09/29/18 A VIEW OF GOD'S SUPPORT SYSTEM
Churches reach out to disaster victims, especially to those in the family of faith.
Be family before you are a victim.
A VIEW OF GOD'S SUPPORT SYSTEM
God sets up mutual and ready care for those who have chosen to be part of His family of faith, the local church.
Galatians 6:10
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
I don't know the numbers of times I have met people, the numbers of people that have come to me or approached me on the street, claiming to be in need. I am not a disaster relief center, but of course I do what I can and what I believe God would have me do. Sometimes I cannot provide the help, for which they are asking. And, in fact, I don't feel compelled to give to everyone who asks, since I know that often times there are people who get churches and Christians to give them finances, only to use those hard earned dollars to gratify carnal desire or support their laziness or poor stewardship.
I usually ask the person who comes to me, "Where do you go to church?" I ask this because that is the church that ought to be taking care of them. If they give me the name of a church (whether locally or on the other side of the country) I ask them if they have already told their pastor. When the tell, me NO, or they tell me they cannot get up with him, I offer to contact him myself and plead their case. That usually ends the conversation. They are usually lying about having a church, going to a church, being part of a church and usually lying about their needs. Whether they admit their deception of if they openly admit that they are not church people, I point out that if they were part of a local body of believers, then they might not be in the difficulty they are in at this time. I also point out that it is presumptuous to call on a church for help when they have been rejecting Jesus until they want financial help. If it is a need that I cannot minister to or a need that I don't feel my church is responsible to handle, I tell them that I cannot and I offer to help them get assistance from another source (governmental, social or religious). Usually they don't want that kind of help, because they are looking for an easy mark.
But now, let's come back to actual disaster relief. Some of these same principles apply in this situation. God does give the church compassion and God does expect believers to care for the truly needy. But God expects and provides for local churches to care for their own, first of all. It is as simple as that. No one should be part of a church, as a safety net for disaster. We ought to be part of a local body of believers because we recognize our need and our responsibility. Churches have a special responsibility for fellow believers. This is God's plan for assistance and support. God did not design the church to be a welfare station for those who resist His salvation.
I know this is not going to fly with some people. I am sorry that you don't understand. But God requires His people (pastors and parishioners) to provide for themselves when the can, to be good stewards of the benefits God provides for them and to address spiritual needs and problems above all other needs.
Yes, we do works of mercy. Yes, we do social ministries. But we are not a welfare organization and we are not called or obligated to serve the demands of people who reject the mercy and love of God. In fact, God often uses the difficulties in a person's life to reach them and save them.
To the glory of God and the credit due to the Christian groups, which do such great and meaningful work through disaster relief, there are multitudes that are helped, who might otherwise not be helped. I am glad for this and encourage churches to get involved in this ministry. HOWEVER, my point is that people should trust God for salvation and then they will see the plan of God to provide for them in time of trouble. God is King and Savior, He is not a welfare provider. I think about how much less suffering people would go through, even in times of disaster, if they were already part of God's family of redemption and love.
Churches reach out to disaster victims, especially to those in the family of faith.
Be family before you are a victim.
A VIEW OF GOD'S SUPPORT SYSTEM
God sets up mutual and ready care for those who have chosen to be part of His family of faith, the local church.
Galatians 6:10
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
I don't know the numbers of times I have met people, the numbers of people that have come to me or approached me on the street, claiming to be in need. I am not a disaster relief center, but of course I do what I can and what I believe God would have me do. Sometimes I cannot provide the help, for which they are asking. And, in fact, I don't feel compelled to give to everyone who asks, since I know that often times there are people who get churches and Christians to give them finances, only to use those hard earned dollars to gratify carnal desire or support their laziness or poor stewardship.
I usually ask the person who comes to me, "Where do you go to church?" I ask this because that is the church that ought to be taking care of them. If they give me the name of a church (whether locally or on the other side of the country) I ask them if they have already told their pastor. When the tell, me NO, or they tell me they cannot get up with him, I offer to contact him myself and plead their case. That usually ends the conversation. They are usually lying about having a church, going to a church, being part of a church and usually lying about their needs. Whether they admit their deception of if they openly admit that they are not church people, I point out that if they were part of a local body of believers, then they might not be in the difficulty they are in at this time. I also point out that it is presumptuous to call on a church for help when they have been rejecting Jesus until they want financial help. If it is a need that I cannot minister to or a need that I don't feel my church is responsible to handle, I tell them that I cannot and I offer to help them get assistance from another source (governmental, social or religious). Usually they don't want that kind of help, because they are looking for an easy mark.
But now, let's come back to actual disaster relief. Some of these same principles apply in this situation. God does give the church compassion and God does expect believers to care for the truly needy. But God expects and provides for local churches to care for their own, first of all. It is as simple as that. No one should be part of a church, as a safety net for disaster. We ought to be part of a local body of believers because we recognize our need and our responsibility. Churches have a special responsibility for fellow believers. This is God's plan for assistance and support. God did not design the church to be a welfare station for those who resist His salvation.
I know this is not going to fly with some people. I am sorry that you don't understand. But God requires His people (pastors and parishioners) to provide for themselves when the can, to be good stewards of the benefits God provides for them and to address spiritual needs and problems above all other needs.
Yes, we do works of mercy. Yes, we do social ministries. But we are not a welfare organization and we are not called or obligated to serve the demands of people who reject the mercy and love of God. In fact, God often uses the difficulties in a person's life to reach them and save them.
To the glory of God and the credit due to the Christian groups, which do such great and meaningful work through disaster relief, there are multitudes that are helped, who might otherwise not be helped. I am glad for this and encourage churches to get involved in this ministry. HOWEVER, my point is that people should trust God for salvation and then they will see the plan of God to provide for them in time of trouble. God is King and Savior, He is not a welfare provider. I think about how much less suffering people would go through, even in times of disaster, if they were already part of God's family of redemption and love.
09/29/18 GOD'S DISASTER RELIEF PLAN
09/29/18 GOD'S DISASTER RELIEF PLAN
God has provided the best care for people in distress: the family of faith.
Be part of the family before you suffer distress.
God has provided the best care for people in distress: the family of faith.
Be part of the family before you suffer distress.
09/29/18 GREAT DISTRESS AFTER THE HURRICANE MESS
09/29/18 GREAT DISTRESS AFTER THE HURRICANE MESS
Don't forget, there is still great distress as well as great beauty.
Untold numbers are homeless, sick, bereaved, wiped out, destitute, jobless, broken, hopeless, separated from loved ones.
Countless elderly people and families have no where to live and no one to help them.
People are without food, water, medical treatment, shelter, clothing.
The aftermath can be even greater than the initial losses.
IT AIN'T OVER BY ANY STRETCH.
PRAY AND GIVE TO THOSE IN NEED.
Don't forget, there is still great distress as well as great beauty.
Untold numbers are homeless, sick, bereaved, wiped out, destitute, jobless, broken, hopeless, separated from loved ones.
Countless elderly people and families have no where to live and no one to help them.
People are without food, water, medical treatment, shelter, clothing.
The aftermath can be even greater than the initial losses.
IT AIN'T OVER BY ANY STRETCH.
PRAY AND GIVE TO THOSE IN NEED.
09/29/18 OVERVIEW OF SALVATION
09/29/18 OVERVIEW OF SALVATION
Salvation is:
1. Instantaneous conversion;
2. Growth in grace;
3. Instantaneous purification;
4. Continued growth in grace.
Salvation is:
1. Instantaneous conversion;
2. Growth in grace;
3. Instantaneous purification;
4. Continued growth in grace.
09/29/18 A SIGN OF COUNTERFEIT
09/29/18 A SIGN OF COUNTERFEIT
If our salvation does not change us and the way we relate to other people, then we have a counterfeit from Satan.
If our salvation does not change us and the way we relate to other people, then we have a counterfeit from Satan.
09/28/18 FROM THE DEPTHS OF THEIR HEARTS
09/28/18 FROM THE DEPTHS OF THEIR HEARTS
NOT ENOUGH WORDS TO SAY THANK YOU
I took the knowledge from previous hurricanes and waited on God to see what He would have me do. I often make decisions that include more than just me an Martha. Everyone makes his or her own decisions about life, but as a pastor I am concerned about the well being of my family and flock. I try to give wise counsel and I try to assist others in finding God's leading.
I was waiting to see what Florence would do. After all, a Cat 4 - Cat 5 is a serious threat. I watched as it diminished in strength and felt that my house would possibly be safe from water and wind, though trees crashing onto my roof were a concern. When your roof is gone in the intensity of the storm, no one can get to you and if the main transportation routes are flooded, you could be in for a bad time. I had family (including, Danielle, a niece visiting from London, UK) and a parishioner whose safety also concerned me.
One major problem with evacuation during a natural disaster (especially one of such strength and magnitude) is the COST factor. This is NOT INSIGNIFICANT and it is not always a simple choice. As I was praying for a place to go, I considered my good friends, Wade and Kim who live about 6 hours from our home. Even before I made any contact with them, he let me know that he would make sure all our folks would have a safe and comfortable place to stay. WOW.
Y'all have seen brother Wade on my FB through the years, visiting, playing Pickleball, kayaking, fishing, worshiping with us. Brother Wade is not financially rich, but he and Kim and his mom are rich in love and Christian action. They made it it possible for all of us to have a safe place during the storm. My niece could have flown back to London right away, but we encouraged her to stay and share in this "strange" part of our lives. It was a family endeavor and we hoped she would taste that part of our lives her in the States. She did travel and stay with us for part of "refugee" time. Sister Robin has family in Raleigh and she stayed time with them. Her family loves her greatly and she was more than welcomed to be with them. WE ARE ALL SO BLESSED.
After being with us for a few days, Danielle was scheduled to return to London. We hated to say good bye, but Danielle opened her heart and her resources in order to make sure that her family would be safe and cared for the difficulties we might face in the following days. We miss you and love you too Danielle.
I wanted to get back to the coast and make our return to the Crystal Coast as soon and as safely as possible. I remembered the inland flooding from Matthew last year and I wanted to avoid that, as well as cut down on the distance for the last part of our return home. After 4 days upstate, we headed to the coast, but not our coast.
Martha has some very deeply committed FRIENDS in the Myrtle Beach area, who have information concerning possible lodging. Martha contacted those friends and immediately they hooked us up with lodging, which provided for as many of us as needed a place to stay, for as long as we needed to stay. Those precious loving people made our evacuee status much more tolerable (and actually pleasant) than it would have been. Thank you to those friends from the bottom of my heart.
Part of our little travel group headed back home, to assess, repair and get back to work. Mark was the first to go, Jon headed to Pa. Hillary and children went to Tn. to visit her family. Bill and Lydia and children went to M.B. and then headed back home. Jon returned from Pa. and headed to Beaufort, in order to get a job and income.
Martha and I, along with Joanna and her children stayed in M.B. waiting for power to be restored and for roads to open up. I also was concerned about those same roads going from bad to worse, AND THEY DID. But praise the Lord, He opened the way for us and we returned to a home that was basically untouched and totally livable. Thanks to Mark, and Bills family, Jon and Robin for all that you did to prepare our house for our return.
While in M.B. we had the privilege to see Daniel, Robin, Cathryn and Nancy who had also evacuated and returned to their homes in M.B. Brother Roger, was still in Florida, so we did not get to see him. The Cushwa family have been great friends and loyal supporters of our ministry for years. I also saw my good friend and brother/pastor Gregory, along with other friends from Crabtree Gymnasium. Sadly, some of those folks suffered great damage to their homes with the flood waters that came in on the day we left M.B.
I have great friends and loved ones. God is sooo good, all the time. God saw all of us through this difficult time and He is still faithful. Thank you again, to all those who helped us do what we could not have done. I want to say, I never had to ask anyone for their love and support. It was what they did, from the love in their hearts.
NOT ENOUGH WORDS TO SAY THANK YOU
I took the knowledge from previous hurricanes and waited on God to see what He would have me do. I often make decisions that include more than just me an Martha. Everyone makes his or her own decisions about life, but as a pastor I am concerned about the well being of my family and flock. I try to give wise counsel and I try to assist others in finding God's leading.
I was waiting to see what Florence would do. After all, a Cat 4 - Cat 5 is a serious threat. I watched as it diminished in strength and felt that my house would possibly be safe from water and wind, though trees crashing onto my roof were a concern. When your roof is gone in the intensity of the storm, no one can get to you and if the main transportation routes are flooded, you could be in for a bad time. I had family (including, Danielle, a niece visiting from London, UK) and a parishioner whose safety also concerned me.
One major problem with evacuation during a natural disaster (especially one of such strength and magnitude) is the COST factor. This is NOT INSIGNIFICANT and it is not always a simple choice. As I was praying for a place to go, I considered my good friends, Wade and Kim who live about 6 hours from our home. Even before I made any contact with them, he let me know that he would make sure all our folks would have a safe and comfortable place to stay. WOW.
Y'all have seen brother Wade on my FB through the years, visiting, playing Pickleball, kayaking, fishing, worshiping with us. Brother Wade is not financially rich, but he and Kim and his mom are rich in love and Christian action. They made it it possible for all of us to have a safe place during the storm. My niece could have flown back to London right away, but we encouraged her to stay and share in this "strange" part of our lives. It was a family endeavor and we hoped she would taste that part of our lives her in the States. She did travel and stay with us for part of "refugee" time. Sister Robin has family in Raleigh and she stayed time with them. Her family loves her greatly and she was more than welcomed to be with them. WE ARE ALL SO BLESSED.
After being with us for a few days, Danielle was scheduled to return to London. We hated to say good bye, but Danielle opened her heart and her resources in order to make sure that her family would be safe and cared for the difficulties we might face in the following days. We miss you and love you too Danielle.
I wanted to get back to the coast and make our return to the Crystal Coast as soon and as safely as possible. I remembered the inland flooding from Matthew last year and I wanted to avoid that, as well as cut down on the distance for the last part of our return home. After 4 days upstate, we headed to the coast, but not our coast.
Martha has some very deeply committed FRIENDS in the Myrtle Beach area, who have information concerning possible lodging. Martha contacted those friends and immediately they hooked us up with lodging, which provided for as many of us as needed a place to stay, for as long as we needed to stay. Those precious loving people made our evacuee status much more tolerable (and actually pleasant) than it would have been. Thank you to those friends from the bottom of my heart.
Part of our little travel group headed back home, to assess, repair and get back to work. Mark was the first to go, Jon headed to Pa. Hillary and children went to Tn. to visit her family. Bill and Lydia and children went to M.B. and then headed back home. Jon returned from Pa. and headed to Beaufort, in order to get a job and income.
Martha and I, along with Joanna and her children stayed in M.B. waiting for power to be restored and for roads to open up. I also was concerned about those same roads going from bad to worse, AND THEY DID. But praise the Lord, He opened the way for us and we returned to a home that was basically untouched and totally livable. Thanks to Mark, and Bills family, Jon and Robin for all that you did to prepare our house for our return.
While in M.B. we had the privilege to see Daniel, Robin, Cathryn and Nancy who had also evacuated and returned to their homes in M.B. Brother Roger, was still in Florida, so we did not get to see him. The Cushwa family have been great friends and loyal supporters of our ministry for years. I also saw my good friend and brother/pastor Gregory, along with other friends from Crabtree Gymnasium. Sadly, some of those folks suffered great damage to their homes with the flood waters that came in on the day we left M.B.
I have great friends and loved ones. God is sooo good, all the time. God saw all of us through this difficult time and He is still faithful. Thank you again, to all those who helped us do what we could not have done. I want to say, I never had to ask anyone for their love and support. It was what they did, from the love in their hearts.
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